Does tourism policy consider climate? Exploring rainy season narratives on the Alagoas coast, Brazil

Abstract

This study aims to expand the discussion regarding the extent to which tourism can address socioeconomic expectations. Like other coastal regions, the state of Alagoas has prioritised tourism promotion, despite facing a rainy season that hinders its primary form of tourism, known as Sea, Sun and Sand tourism. We have based our assessment on climate and weather. Through various sources, we have identified narratives related to the rainy season. When crossing these narratives with the Alagoas Strategic Plan for Tourism Development 2013-2023, our findings revealed that the state’s policy inadequately addresses the impact of the rainy season. Consequently, we have proposed some recommendations to better align with current local-regional constraints and demands. Beyond the scope of this work, our narrative approach has proven valuable in expanding the consideration of values and meanings within the framework of public policy development, potentially fostering a more holistic understanding of the environment-society relationship.